Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa - Subclass 186

The Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa (Subclass 186) allows skilled workers nominated by an Australian employer to live and work in Australia permanently. It is an excellent opportunity for skilled individuals to secure a permanent residency and contribute to the Australian economy.

Key Features of the ENS Visa (Subclass 186)

Permanent Residency: This visa provides a pathway to live and work in Australia permanently, offering long-term stability for you and your family.
Employer Nomination: To be eligible, you must be nominated by an Australian employer for a position that aligns with the country's labor needs.
Basic Eligibility Criteria:
- Have the necessary skills and qualifications for the job.
- Be nominated by an approved Australian employer.
- Meet the health and character requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs.

Streams Under the ENS Visa (Subclass 186)

1. Direct Entry Stream

This stream is for skilled workers who meet the following criteria:

Nominated by an Australian employer.
Occupation must be listed on the relevant eligible skilled occupations list.
Have at least Competent English.
At least three years of relevant work experience and a positive skills assessment for the nominated occupation, unless exempt.
Stay: Permanently

Learn More Direct Entry stream

2. Labour Agreement Stream

This stream is designed for skilled workers employed under a labor agreement between their employer and the Australian government.

Eligibility:
- Employer must have a valid labor agreement.
- The applicant must be currently working, or have an offer to work, for an employer who is a party to a valid Labour Agreement with the Australian Government. The Labour Agreement must specify age, skills, and English language requirements.
- Stay: Permanently

Learn More Labour agreement stream

3. Temporary Residence Transition Stream

This stream is for workers currently holding a Subclass 457, TSS, or related bridging visa who wish to transition to permanent residency.

Eligibility:
- Must have worked full-time for the nominating employer for at least three years while holding a Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) SC 482 visa in the nominated occupation.
- Must be nominated by your employer.
- Stay: Permanently

Learn More Temporary Residence Transition stream

Benefits of the ENS Visa

Secure permanent residency in Australia.
Access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system.
Opportunity to sponsor eligible family members for permanent residency.
Greater job security and opportunities in your profession.

Age Requirements

Applicants must generally be under 45 years of age. However, exemptions apply if:

You are a senior academic nominated by an Australian university.
You are a scientist, researcher, or technical specialist working for an Australian government agency.
You have been working for the same employer under a TSS or 457 visa for at least three years and meet the Fair Work High Income Threshold.
You are a medical practitioner working in regional Australia.
You are applying under a Labour Agreement Stream that allows age exemptions.

English Language Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate Competent English unless exempt. Exemptions apply for those who have studied full-time for at least five years in English or if the Labour Agreement allows for lower English proficiency levels.